Responsible use of antimicrobials in beekeeping

These guidelines focus on responsible use of antimicrobials in sustainable apiculture. Following a one-health approach, they aim to protect not only honey bees, but even human health (e.g. reducing the risks of residues in hive products and preventing development of antimicrobial resistance) and the environment. The best way to reach this goal is to prevent and to guarantee the early detection of clinical cases of the main honey bee diseases through the application of good beekeeping practices and biosecurity measures.

And when medicines are needed for the honey bees, specific indication is provided to reduce their impact: choosing medicines with a low environmental impact, using them timely, prudently and following the due instructions. It is imperative to apply only those active ingredients that are registered for the honey bees and that are ideally prescribed by a veterinarian. Antibiotics should always be avoided as much as possible to reduce risks of residues in hive products and to prevent risks of antimicrobial resistance.

Prudent and limited use of antimicrobials in beekeeping benefits the quality of bee products and the safety of surrounding ecosystems, while also slowing development of antimicrobial resistance, which is a widespread issue affecting multiple sectors. Finally, in this document, for the first time, a progressive management pathway (PMP) has been devised for honey bees, as well as surveys were created to assess current beekeeping practices and general awareness of topical issues such as AMR. The overall aim of these guidelines is to provide information of current challenges within the sector and orientate towards sustainable production and honey bee colony health.